Cricket

World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli’s sheer commitment sets him apart from others, says Shoaib Akhtar after match-winning knock vs SA

Former Pakistan gun fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has heaped praise on Virat Kohli after his match-winning knock of 101 runs against South Africa in the ongoing World Cup at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Sunday. Akhtar reckons Kohli’s sheer commitment sets him apart from the pack.

Kohli got off to a brisk start against the Proteas but he quickly realized that the pitch was difficult to bat on against the spinners. Ergo, Kohli showed patience in his game and took his time in the middle overs.

The talisman once again played a risk-free game and scored his much-awaited 49th ODI century to match Sachin Tendulkar’s tally. Kohli added a crucial alliance of 134 runs with Shreyas Iyer, who scored 77 runs. The right-hander scored 10 fours in his fine knock as he batted with guile on a tricky pitch.

“Kohli has now completed 49 centuries in ODI cricket. It’s mind-boggling. Kohli has got to this landmark with sheer commitment, focus and fitness. His sheer will to become the best batter ever is what sets him apart from other batters,” said Akhtar in a video posted on X.

The former speedster added that Kohli’s commitment could be a huge lesson for all the youngsters who want to make it big in their careers.

“There have been many great batters before but Kohli became the best through his sheer commitment. This is also a lesson for all youngsters who want to achieve their dreams,” Akhtar added.

Kohli has scored 543 runs in eight matches of the ongoing World Cup 2023 at an impressive average of 108.60 and a strike rate of 88.29 and he is currently the second-highest run-getter of the tournament after Quinton de Kock, who has amassed 550 runs.

India will next take on the Netherlands at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Harbhajan Singh suggests India’s playing 11 changes after ENG vs IND 2025 1st Test

Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has backed Kuldeep Yadav’s selection in the second Test match… Read More

June 25, 2025

Sunil Gavaskar suggests India’s playing 11 changes after loss in ENG vs IND 2025 1st Test, backs Kuldeep Yadav to replace Shardul Thakur

Legendary Sunil Gavaskar wants Kuldeep Yadav to be included in the second Test playing XI… Read More

June 25, 2025

Navjot Singh Sidhu backs Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav for 2nd Test against England

Former Indian opener Navjot Singh Sidhu believes India should make changes to their bowling line-up… Read More

June 25, 2025

Tyrese Haliburton on playing with calf strain: ‘I’d do it again’

Indiana Pacers talisman Tyrese Haliburton has no regrets on playing with calf strain in the… Read More

June 25, 2025

Luka Modric agrees to sign for AC Milan after Club World Cup

Croatian veteran midfielder Luka Madrid has agreed to sign with Italian giants AC Milan after… Read More

June 25, 2025

Andy Roddick says beating Roger Federer in the 2008 Wimbledon final launched Rafael Nadal into an all-time great

Former World No.1 Andy Roddick said beating Roger Federer in the 2008 Wimbledon final catapulted… Read More

June 25, 2025